Developer of wind farm considering other projects in Nevada

Pattern Energy is set to bring the state's first wind farm online in coming weeks, and the company's chief executive officer says the San Francisco-based power developer has its eye on other renewable energy projects in Nevada.

Pattern on Wednesday will hold opening ceremonies for its 150-megawatt Spring Valley wind farm near Ely. Spring Valley is projected to generate enough power for 45,000 homes annually.

The warm reception Pattern received throughout this project, as well as Nevada's viability for wind farms and solar plants, could lead to additional power generation projects in the future, Pattern CEO Mike Garland says. Garland wouldn't discuss details of any future projects, though.

"There has been lot of support, from representatives to Congress and legislators, as well as a lot of local individuals," Garland says. "It's one of those things that you have to step back and think about the great opportunities Nevada has for wind and solar. There is a lot of enthusiasm from Nevada for it, and we think that there will be a lot of opportunities over time. Right now the demand for power is a little flat, but we are looking at other projects in Nevada that we can improve on and create for the benefit of Nevada."

Garland expects the Spring Valley project to be fully commissioned soon. Currently the wind farm's 66 turbines each standing 420 feet tall from the blade tip at its peak to the ground are producing test power before full commissioning. Pattern has a 20-year power purchase agreement with NV Energy for power generated at Spring Valley.

"We are incredibly pleased to be first wind farm in Nevada," Garland says.